Aging causes the loss of facial collagen and the skin becomes loose and loose, which is the main problem we have to solve, and one solution is going through an anti-aging treatment.
Whenever we would decide to go through any type of anti-aging treatment, we usually ask the question “Does it work?”.
HIFU treatment is one of the treatments patients ask about.
In this article, we’ll be discussing what you need to know about HIFU technology and answer the question “Does HIFU treatment really work?”.
What is a HIFU treatment?
HIFU stands for High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound.
This is a machine-based treatment that is now considered the most advanced non-surgical facelift in the world.
It involves using a specific handpiece and going through the skin over and over again.
The HIFU treatment machine emits very precise ultrasound waves that can penetrate the skin at different depths.
If you can look inside the skin, you’ll see rows of spots or hot spots that the ultrasound hits.
The idea is that we are targeting a very deep layer, called the SMAS layer.
This is the layer that surgeons grab and lift in surgical facelifts.
HIFU treatment procedure
Professionals usually begin the HIFU facial rejuvenation by cleansing selected areas of the face and applying the gel.
Then, they used a handheld device to emit ultrasound in short pulses.
Each session typically lasts 30-90 minutes.
Some people experience mild discomfort during treatment and some experience a little pain after their HIFU treatment.
Your doctor may use a local anesthetic before surgery to help prevent this pain.
Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help you if you feel uncomfortable.
HIFU facials do not require any preparation, unlike other cosmetic procedures.
There is also no recovery time at the end of the session, which means people can continue their daily activities after going through a HIFU treatment.
Patients may need anywhere from one to six sessions, depending on the outcome they want to achieve.
Pros and Cons of HIFU treatments
Pros
- If your HIFU treatment specifically targets the jawline and the skin around the neck, it will enhance your natural jawline.
- A major benefit of HIFU treatments is that they help reduce wrinkles significantly.
- The most noticeable effect is always firm and loose skin. Not only is the skin firmer, but most of the time HIFU treatments make the skin smoother.
- Firmer skin and fewer wrinkles result in an overall lift in facial appearances, such as lifting cheeks, eyelids, or eyebrows.
Cons
- Skin swelling and swelling are rare side effects of HIFU facials, but because everyone’s skin is different, swelling can occur.
- Ultrasound therapy is generally painless, with users reporting slight tingling or warmth in the skin. However, there may be a tingling and burning sensation that is only felt during the treatment and does not last while the client is away.
- The treated area may become red and blotchy, especially if your skin is sensitive and prone to redness. This side effect is not permanent and usually goes away within a few hours of treatment.
- People receiving HIFU sometimes experience no significant benefit or side effects from ultrasound therapy. While it’s great that their skin isn’t damaged, it’s not great for those who wish to have wrinkle-free and firmer skin.
How to care for your skin before and after HIFU treatment
HIFU requires a shorter recovery time than surgical facelifts.
It is still found that the procedure reduces sagging skin, smoothens wrinkles, and improves skin texture.
Here are some things to remember after going through a HIFU treatment.
Before your HIFU treatment
- Inform your doctor of any changes in your medication, if any.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of cold sores or flare-ups, as this can affect treatment. Anti-viral drugs can be taken if necessary.
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning (including tanning beds) for two weeks before treatment.
- Avoid using any kind of acid/chemical products on the area one week before treatment.
- If you are using a local anesthetic, use it 30-45 minutes before your appointment, if needed.
After your HIFU treatment
- Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Avoid thermal treatments such as taking hot baths/showers, saunas, and steam rooms.
- Bruising sometimes occurs in sensitive areas after treatment, especially around the eyes. This may last up to 5 days but should resolve without long-term effects.
- A non-exfoliating cleanser and light moisturizer can be used on the day of treatment and 1-2 days after treatment. Normal skin habits can return around day 3, but acidic/chemical products should be avoided for at least 7 days after treatment.
- Further laser treatments, chemical peels, and dermal fillers can resume 2 weeks after treatment.
- Keep the area clean and dry and allow it to heal naturally. Do not use any lotions or creams on open skin as this may increase the risk of infection.
- The treated area may be red or pink after treatment and may last for several hours. During this time, it will also feel warm to the touch.
- High-protection sunscreen should be used after treatment and sun exposure should be avoided for 4 weeks after treatment.
- Waxing, tweezers, and hair removal creams can be returned within 7 days of treatment.
- Makeup can be applied 12 hours after HIFU treatment.
- After treatment, the contraction of collagen fibers will immediately improve the elasticity of your skin, making your skin look firmer. This may be temporary as new collagen production takes time and the best results will be seen after your treatment process
HIFU is the most effective treatment and a safe alternative to surgery.
It can be used on the body to target fat and tighten the skin, or on the face as a facelift.
When you combine all of the benefits of HIFU, it’s easy to see why it works, and why it’s quickly becoming a favorite among those in the beauty industry who aren’t ready for surgery or are just beginning to notice aging.
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